Hair styling device with improved blow module

Abstract

The invention relates to a portable hair styling device (1) comprising a blow module (5) for generating an air flow jet towards the hair, said blow module (5) comprising at least one centrifugal or spiral centrifugal fan wheel (6) with blades (8) and a volute (9), said fan wheel (6) being rotatably mounted within the volute, said blades (8) extending radially between a leading edge (8A) and an opposite trailing edge (8B), said fan wheel (6) having an inner diameter defined by the leading edges (8A) of the blades (8) and an outer diameter defined by the trailing edges (8B) of the blades (8), the ratio of the outer diameter to the inner diameter of the fan wheel (8) being between 1.6 and 1.8, the ratio of the outer diameter expressed in millimeters to the number of blades (8) being between 2 and 3.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the general technical field of home hair styling devices, and more specifically to the field of portable hair styling devices designed to blow airflow to dry hair and / or facilitate hair styling.

[0002] More specifically, the present invention relates to a portable hair styling device comprising an embedded blower module designed to generate an airflow intended to be sprayed by the hair styling device toward the user's hair. Background Technology

[0003] Known hair styling devices, such as handheld hair dryers or blow dryer brushes, include a handle and a blower head through which a forced airflow generated by a blower module embedded in the device can be directed onto the user's hair.

[0004] While these known hair styling devices are generally satisfactory, they are not perfect. In particular, there is a great need for increasingly smaller hair styling devices that still offer optimal aerodynamic performance and noise control. In fact, reducing the size of hair styling devices often leads to a significant decrease in performance.

[0005] Furthermore, the ergonomics of known types of hair dryers are not always optimal, and they have proven difficult to operate at times, especially when users combine the dryer with a brush to dry their hair for a "brushed" style, which means repeatedly moving the handheld dryer back and forth. Of particular note is the tendency of known hair dryers to exhibit static and / or dynamic imbalances, especially those employing high-speed electric fans. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to respond to the above-mentioned needs and problems, and in particular to propose a new portable hair styling device that is limited in size while providing excellent performance in terms of aerodynamics and noise control during operation.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel portable hair styling device that allows for particularly efficient drying and styling of hair under comfortable usage conditions.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a new, particularly robust and reliable portable hair styling device.

[0009] Another objective of this invention is to propose a novel portable hair styling device that is particularly simple in structure, relatively easy to manufacture, and cost-controllable.

[0010] The object of the present invention is achieved by a portable hair styling device comprising an embedded blower module adapted to generate an airflow intended to be sprayed from the hair styling device toward the user's hair. The device is characterized in that the blower module includes at least one centrifugal or spiral centrifugal bladed fan wheel and a volute housing, the fan wheel being rotatably mounted within the volute housing, each blade extending radially between a leading edge and an opposing trailing edge, the fan wheel having an inner diameter defined by the leading edge of the blade and an outer diameter defined by the trailing edge of the blade, the ratio of the outer diameter to the inner diameter of the fan wheel being between 1.6 and 1.8, and the ratio of the outer diameter to the number of blades, expressed in millimeters, being between 2 and 3. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Referring to the accompanying drawings, other features and advantages of the invention will become more specific and apparent from the following description, which are given by way of illustrative and non-limiting example only, wherein:

[0012] Figure 1 An embodiment of a hair styling device according to the present invention is shown in a side view, wherein the device forms a hair dryer;

[0013] Figure 2 According to the front view Figure 1 The equipment;

[0014] Figure 3 The side perspective view shows... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The equipment. Some components of the equipment are omitted or made transparent to highlight certain internal design features of the equipment;

[0015] Figure 4 According to the AA sagittal section view, it is shown Figures 1 to 3 The equipment;

[0016] Figure 5 Based on the sagittal section AA and the transverse section BB orthogonal to the sagittal section AA (see... Figure 1 The side view shows Figures 1 to 4 The equipment was designed to highlight certain internal design features of the device's blower module;

[0017] Figure 6 The diagram is schematically shown based on the sagittal section of the AA. Figures 1 to 5 The fan wheel of the device's blower module;

[0018] Figure 7 According to the CC orthographic view (see) Figure 1 The cross-sectional views of BB show Figures 1 to 6 The device's blower module;

[0019] Figure 8According to the CC orthogonal section view, it is shown Figures 1 to 7 Details of the device's blower module;

[0020] Figure 9 According to the BB cross section view, it is shown Figures 1 to 8 Certain design aspects of the blower module of the device. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The hair styling device 1 according to the invention is designed to be held and operated by hand. Therefore, it is a portable handheld hair styling device, preferably for use in a home environment by users lacking specialized hairstyling skills. Preferably, the hair styling device 1 is designed for use on the user's own body, i.e., on their own hair. However, without departing from the scope of the invention, it is entirely conceivable that the device 1 could be designed for use by a user on the hair of a third party.

[0022] Preferably, according to the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the hair styling device 1 forms a hair dryer (or hair drying machine) that allows a user to dry wet or damp hair by blowing a forced, hot or cold airflow toward the hair, and facilitates hair styling. However, the invention is not limited to this particular embodiment. For example, it is entirely conceivable that the hair styling device 1 could form, for example, a hair dryer brush or any other portable hair styling device with the function of blowing airflow onto the user's hair, which could be more specifically used for hair styling purposes, such as direct contact with the hair (brushing, straightening, etc.). In known ways, hair dryers include mechanical hair-engaging devices, such as bristles, barbs, teeth, etc. However, for the sake of brevity, the following description will focus primarily on the hair styling device 1 of the type of hair dryer shown in the figures.

[0023] Advantageously, the hair styling device 1 includes a handle 2 (or grip), through which the device 1 can be manually gripped for use. The handle 2 thus forms a manual gripping member designed for operation of the hair styling device 1 by a user. Advantageously, the handle 2 is elongated, i.e., it extends primarily along a single spatial direction corresponding to the longitudinal direction. In other words, the handle 2 has an elongated shape, allowing an adult user to grip it with their entire hand. Therefore, the handle 2 extends along the average longitudinal direction D1-D. 1’ Extending longitudinally between the first end 2A and the second end 2B. Preferably, the distance between the first end and the second ends 2A, 2B corresponds to the length of the handle 2, sufficient to allow all the fingers of the user's hand to close on the handle 2. Advantageously, the handle 2 is formed from a single part or component assembly. For example, it is generally tubular (e.g., having an average circular or elliptical cross-section, which may or may not be constant), and its shape and size ensure that the user can grip firmly with their hand, especially with their "whole hand," i.e., with their palm and fingers.

[0024] The hair styling device 1 also includes a hair dryer head 3, which is designed to blow out a (forced) airflow from the device 1 to ensure hair drying. Advantageously, the hair dryer head 3 extends a handle 2 from a first end 2A. The hair dryer head 3 is typically provided with at least one air outlet 4 through which the airflow is intended to run in an average blowing direction D2-D. 2’ The airflow is directed outwards, allowing it to be directed toward the user's hair for drying. The hair dryer head 3 is preferably fixed relative to the handle 2 and is preferably permanently integrated with the handle 2, advantageously forming an integral sub-assembly, thus making the handle 2 and the hair dryer head 3 advantageously inseparable. However, it is still conceivable that the hair dryer head 3 can be removably and temporarily attached to the handle, such that, for example, the hair dryer head 3 can constitute an interchangeable accessory of the hair styling device 1.

[0025] Air outlet 4 may have a generally circular opening as shown in the figures, and may be provided with, for example, a protective grille. Preferably, as shown in the various figures, air outlet 4 has a disc-shaped airflow cross-section. However, the invention is not limited to a specific geometry of air outlet 4, and air outlet 4 may have any suitable shape, such as elliptical, slotted, etc.

[0026] According to one variation, the hair dryer head 3 is advantageously designed to receive an accessory or end piece (not shown), such as a nozzle or diffuser, at the air outlet 4 in a detachable manner (e.g., by snap-fit, threaded connection, press-fit, bayonet locking, etc.), in order to change the size and / or shape of the effective outlet cross-section of the airflow initially defined by the air outlet 4 flowing from the hair dryer head 3 (thus, for example, changing the velocity of the airflow blown by the hair styling device 1). With this construction of the accessory temporarily fixed to the hair styling device 1 and extending the hair dryer head 3 beyond the air outlet 4, many specific hair styling effects can be achieved. According to another embodiment, conversely, the hair dryer head 3 of the hair styling device may not be designed to receive such a detachable accessory or end piece. Since there are no detachable parts that the user can remove from the hair dryer head 3, this facilitates the use of the hair styling device 1 and prevents the user from misplacing the accessory. According to another variant that combines the advantages of the two aforementioned variants, the air outlet of the hair dryer head of the hair styling device 1 can be advantageously provided with an adjusting member for adjusting the size and / or shape of the useful air passage cross section at the air outlet 4, such as an adjustable nozzle, diffuser, or even a diaphragm. This adjusting member is integrated with the hair dryer head 3 and therefore cannot be separated from the hair dryer head 3.

[0027] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the average longitudinal extension direction of the handle 2 is D1-D 1’ It is advantageous to be substantially perpendicular to the average blowing direction D2-D 2’However, the invention is not limited to this particular embodiment, which has proven to be particularly convenient for the user and advantageously contributes to the compact features of the hair styling device 1. Alternatively, the average longitudinal extension direction D1-D 1’ And the average blowing direction D2-D 2’ They can be tilted relative to each other, such that the average longitudinal extension direction D1-D 1’ And the average blowing direction D2-D 2’ The angle between them is greater than or less than 90°. For example, the average longitudinal extension direction D1-D 1’ And the average blowing direction D2-D 2’ The angle between them is advantageously between 80° and 100°, and preferably between 85° and 95°.

[0028] The hair styling device 1 according to the invention also includes an embedded blower module 5 (or electric fan module) designed to generate the airflow, which is intended to be sprayed from the hair styling device 1 toward the user's hair.

[0029] According to a preferred variant of the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the blower module 5 extends a handle 2 from the second end 2B, such that the handle 2 is thus positioned between the blower module 5 and the blower head 3, and extends longitudinally between the two. The blower module 5 itself can be extended via a power cord (not shown), the power cord having an electrical connection plug at its free end.

[0030] Therefore, the blower module 5 of the hair styling device 1 is preferably removed from the blower head 3 and handle 2. This allows the size of the blower module 5 to be determined economically to generate a large airflow without affecting the overall volume of the blower head 3 and handle 2. Furthermore, this arrangement of the blower module 5, through the mass distribution on both sides of the handle 2, helps to better balance the weight of the hair styling device 1, which contributes to improved user comfort. In fact, this mass distribution on both sides of the user's hand is particularly helpful for hand movement when the user wants to perform hair styling operations (such as brushing).

[0031] According to another less advantageous variation (not shown), the blower module can be arranged at the blower head 3 of the device, or even inside the blower head, which is common in conventional hair dryers.

[0032] Regardless of the chosen location, the blower module 5 of the hair styling device 1 according to the invention includes at least one fan wheel 6 with blades (or paddles or blades), the fan wheel 6 being mounted along the rotation axis D3-D 3’Rotation. Advantageously, the blower module 5 also includes a housing 7, within which the fan wheel 6 is housed. More specifically, the fan wheel 6 is a centrifugal fan wheel (as shown) or a spiral centrifugal fan wheel. Using a centrifugal or spiral centrifugal fan wheel 6 allows for higher internal pressure within the same volume, with an airflow rate substantially similar to that of a spiral fan or helical fan, but at a potentially lower speed, resulting in less noise. Furthermore, as will be understood below, using a centrifugal or spiral centrifugal fan wheel 6 advantageously enables a more compact design for the hair styling device 1.

[0033] Interestingly, unlike conventional spiral fans or helical fans, the spiral centrifugal fan wheel or centrifugal fan wheel 6 is also capable of generating sufficient internal airflow pressure so that the performance of the hair styling device 1 is not significantly reduced when a large air restriction is applied at the air outlet 4, especially as described above by assembling accessories or end pieces onto the air outlet 4. Preferably, as shown, the fan wheel 6 is a centrifugal fan wheel comprising multiple blades 8. This centrifugal fan wheel 6 is typically particularly small in size and relatively quiet in operation, which proves to be very important for devices intended for use near the head and ears.

[0034] More specifically, the fan wheel 6 is an "actuator" (or "cage") fan wheel, meaning that the blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 are tilted forward in the direction of rotation of the fan wheel 6 (using...). Figure 5 (As indicated by the arrow in the image), the air is thus impacted by the lower surface of blade 8. At a constant wheel diameter and rotational speed, this type of "acting" centrifugal impeller or spiral impeller advantageously provides a higher total flow rate and pressure than a "reaction" centrifugal impeller or spiral impeller (i.e., whose blades are tilted backward in the fan wheel rotation direction) or radial blades. Furthermore, this type of "acting" centrifugal or spiral impeller fan impeller also has the advantage of producing less noise than a "reaction" centrifugal impeller or spiral impeller or radial blades.

[0035] Especially as Figures 3 to 6 As shown, each blade 8 of the fan wheel 6 extends radially between its leading edge 8A and its opposite trailing edge 8B (considering the rotation axis D3-D of the wheel 6). 3’ The “radial” extension of blade 8 here clearly refers to the overall average extension, as stated above, considering the rotation axis D3-D of wheel 6. 3’ The blade 8 is not strictly contained within the radial plane, but is inclined forward in the direction of rotation of the fan wheel 6. Therefore, the blade 8 extends radially between a first front end defining the leading edge 8A and a relatively second rear end defining the trailing edge 8B. Specifically, as... Figure 5 and Figure 6 As schematically shown, the fan wheel 6 has an inner diameter D defined by the leading edge 8A of the blade 8. iand the outer diameter D defined by the trailing edge 8B of blade 8. e In other words, the inner diameter D of fan wheel 6 i Corresponding to the rotation axis D3-D relative to fan wheel 6 3’ The distance between the corresponding leading edges 8A of two blades 8 positioned opposite each other. Specifically, the outer diameter D of the fan wheel 6. e Corresponding to the rotation axis D3-D relative to fan wheel 6 3’ The distance between the corresponding trailing edges 8B of the two blades 8 positioned facing each other (i.e., opposite each other). Therefore, the inner radius of the fan wheel 6 corresponds to the rotation axis D3-D. 3’ The distance between the leading edge 8A of blade 8 and the outer radius of fan wheel 6, which corresponds to the rotation axis D3-D. 3’ The distance between the leading edge 8A of the blade 8 and the trailing edge 8B of the fan wheel 6. Advantageously, the leading edge 8A of the blade 8 of the fan wheel 6 thus defines the inner circumference P of the fan wheel 6. i The trailing edge 8B of the blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 defines the outer periphery P of the fan wheel 6. e ( Figure 5 and Figure 6 Each blade 8 of the fan wheel 6 is tilted forward when viewed from the direction of rotation of the fan wheel 6, and advantageously has a general "spoon" shape, having a concave surface forming the lower surface of the blade 8 and opposing convex surfaces forming the upper surface of the blade 8. Each blade 8 has a thickness e, which therefore corresponds to the distance between the opposing concave and convex surfaces of the blade 8. Preferably, the blades 8 are identical to each other and advantageously radially equidistant, as in the embodiment shown in the figures, which simplifies the design and manufacture of the fan wheel 6. Furthermore, the blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 are positioned at the first and second axial ends along a path generally parallel to or inclined to the axis of rotation D3-D of the fan wheel 6. 3’ It extends longitudinally in the direction of.

[0036] To further simplify the design and manufacture of the fan wheel 6, particularly through molding or injection molding of plastic or metal materials, it is advantageous, according to the embodiment shown in the figures, that the blades 8 are straight along their overall longitudinal extension direction, i.e., not twisted. More advantageously, the trailing edges 8B of the blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 are each along the average extension direction D4-D. 4’ The extension direction is generally parallel to the rotation axis D3-D of the fan wheel 6. 3’ Conversely, the leading edges 8A of the blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 each advantageously extend along the average direction of extension D5-D. 5’ The extension direction is generally parallel to the rotation axis D3-D of the fan wheel 6. 3’ Therefore, the average extension direction of the trailing edge 8B of each blade 8 is D4-D. 4’ Advantageously, it is substantially parallel to the average extension direction D5-D of the corresponding leading edge 8A of the blade 8. 5’ .

[0037] The blower module 5 also includes a volute 9 and a fan wheel 6 around its rotation axis D3-D. 3’ It is rotatably mounted within a volute 9. The volute 9 surrounds the fan wheel 6 and cooperates with the fan wheel 6 to generate airflow. The volute 9 is included within, or may be formed from, the housing 7 of the blower module 5, thus defining an internal working chamber 10 in which the fan wheel 6 is housed.

[0038] The fan wheel 6 includes at least one air inlet 11 through which air enters the interior of the fan wheel 6 to contact the leading edge 8A of the blades 8 before being centrifugally or helically ejected from the fan wheel 6 via the trailing edge 8B of the blades 8 as the fan wheel 6 rotates. Advantageously, according to the embodiment shown in the figure, the air inlet 11 is formed and defined by a circular central opening of a first annular flange 12 (or annular crown) that connects the blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 to each other and crosses the blades 8 at one of their axial ends. Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Advantageously, the opening diameter of the air inlet 11 is substantially equal to the inner diameter D of the fan wheel 6. i This allows air to penetrate into the fan wheel 6, which has proven beneficial in terms of airflow and noise generated by the blowing module 5 during operation.

[0039] Advantageously, the blower module 5 includes at least one air intake 13, which is arranged upstream of the fan wheel 6 relative to the airflow through the housing 7, to allow the fan wheel 6 to be parallel to the rotation axis D3-D. 3’ It draws in outside air. Therefore, the air intake 13 is located along the rotation axis D3-D. 3’ An opening is formed, allowing external air to be drawn into the housing 7 by the suction generated by the rotation of the fan wheel 6. Therefore, the volute 9 itself is provided with at least one air inlet 14, which corresponds to the air intake 13 and the air inlet 11 of the fan wheel 6 that pass through the housing 7. Thus, ambient air from outside the device 1 is axially drawn into the working chamber 10 formed by the volute 9 through this air inlet 14 by the fan wheel 6. Figure 7 Advantageously, the air intake 13 of the housing 7 and the air inlet 14 of the volute 9 have circular cross-sections. For reasons mentioned above regarding airflow control and noise generation, the opening diameter of each air intake 13 and air inlet 14 is preferably at least equal to the opening diameter of the air intake 11 of the fan wheel 6. Preferably, for user safety, a protective grille 15 is also advantageously implemented at the air intake 13 located through the housing 7.

[0040] Typically, the volute 9 also includes an air outlet portion 16 (or diffuser) that extends into the chamber 10 formed by the volute 9 and defines an exhaust port 17 through which the fan wheel 6 radially discharges the drawn-in air from the chamber 10. Advantageously, as Figures 3 to 5 and Figure 9 As shown, the volute 9 is also provided with a volute nozzle (or nose) 18, which is defined by a free leading edge 19 arranged within the air outlet portion 16 of the volute 9, facing the fan wheel 6. Advantageously, the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 defines the working chamber 10 of the air outlet portion 16 of the volute 9.

[0041] Preferably, the blower module 5 includes a motor 20 connected to the fan wheel 6 to drive the fan wheel 6 along the rotation axis D3-D 3’ Rotation. The electric motor 20 is advantageously arranged near the fan wheel 6 and, for example, is provided with a rotor that drives the motor shaft 21 to rotate, the motor shaft 21 being directly or via a transmission connected to the fan wheel 6. The electric motor 20 is designed to drive the fan wheel 6 to rotate at a speed preferably between 10,000 and 20,000 rpm, and even more preferably between 14,000 and 17,000 rpm. For example, the blower module 5 can be advantageously configured to operate at two different speeds, namely a first minimum operating speed and a second maximum operating speed, at which the fan wheel 6 is driven by the electric motor 20 to rotate at a first speed of approximately 14,000 rpm, and at the second maximum operating speed, the fan wheel 6 is driven by the electric motor 20 to rotate at a second speed of approximately 17,000 rpm.

[0042] According to the present invention, the outer diameter D of the fan wheel 6 of the hair styling device 1 is... e With inner diameter D i The ratio is between 1.6 and 1.8. In other words, the outer diameter D of fan wheel 6... e and inner diameter D i The ratio of D e / D i The size of fan wheel 6 is chosen to be within the range of approximately 1.6 to 1.8, meaning the outer diameter D of fan wheel 6 is such that... e Basically equal to its inner diameter D i 1.6 to 1.8 times. Of course, this dimensional characteristic can also be defined as the outer radius of the fan wheel 6 (defined on the rotation axis D3-D). 3’ Between the trailing edge 8B of blade 8 and the inner radius (defined on the rotation axis D3-D) 3’ The ratio between the leading edge 8A of blade 8 and blade 8 is in the form of a ratio.

[0043] In addition, the outer diameter D of fan wheel 6 eThe ratio of the outer diameter (in millimeters) to the number of blades 8 is between 2 and 3. In other words, the outer diameter D, in millimeters... e The ratio of the number of blades 8 to the number of fan wheel 6 is chosen to be in the range of substantially between 2 and 3, that is, for a given outer diameter D of fan wheel 6. e The number of blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 is selected such that the outer diameter D, expressed in millimeters, is... e It is basically two to three times the number of leaves 8.

[0044] In fact, it has been observed that, quite interestingly, the hair styling device 1 exhibits this specific combination of design features in the following aspects: i) the specific choice of technology for the fan wheel 6 (a bladed fan wheel 6 of either centrifugal or spiral centrifugal type), ii) the outer diameter D of the fan wheel 6. e and inner diameter D i The dimensions are determined, and iii) the number of blades 8 relative to the outer diameter D of the fan wheel 6. e The specific selection allows for an excellent trade-off between the aerodynamic performance of the blower module 5 and the aerodynamic noise generated by the blower module 5 during operation of the hair styling device 1, given the relatively limited overall volume of the blower module 5. This is particularly evident within the preferred speed range of the fan wheel 6 described above.

[0045] Furthermore, it has been proven that the outer diameter D of fan wheel 6... e With inner diameter D i This ratio is generally between 1.6 and 1.8, thus enabling the generation of optimal airflow in a particularly advantageous manner, regardless of whether the air outlet 4 of the blower head 3 is equipped with accessories, end pieces, or other components as previously described for adjusting the useful cross-section of the air outlet of the hair styling device 1. In fact, it has been particularly observed that when the air outlet 4 of the hair styling device 1 is provided with accessories (e.g., nozzles) for limiting the useful air passage cross-section initially defined by the air outlet 4 and the diameter is greater than D... e / D i When the value is significantly lower than 1.6, the aerodynamic performance of the hair styling device 1 tends to decrease. Conversely, it has also been observed that when the air outlet 4 of the hair styling device 1 lacks such an accessory for limiting the useful air passage cross-section initially defined by the air outlet 4 and its diameter is greater than D... e / D i When the value is significantly higher than 1.8, the aerodynamic performance of hair styling equipment 1 tends to decrease.

[0046] Thanks to the wise choices made in the design of the hair styling device 1, especially the wise choices made in the design of the hair dryer module 5 of the hair styling device, it becomes possible to design and manufacture a particularly compact hair styling device 1 by particularly reducing the volume of the hair dryer module 5 itself, and at the same time provide excellent performance in terms of aerodynamics and noise control during operation.

[0047] More importantly, considering the explanation provided above, it has been proven that the hair styling device 1 according to the invention can operate optimally regardless of whether its air outlet 4 is equipped with an accessory for limiting the useful air passage cross-section initially defined by said air outlet 4. Therefore, the hair styling device 1 can advantageously achieve excellent results in both simple hair drying (air outlet 4 is not equipped with an accessory for limiting the useful air passage cross-section) and hair styling (air outlet 4 is equipped with an accessory for limiting the useful air passage cross-section, such as a nozzle, diffuser, etc.). This also means that the blower module 5 designed according to the invention can advantageously be equipped without distinction on hair styling devices 1 where the air outlet 4 is not designed for the user to equip with an accessory for limiting the useful air passage cross-section (e.g., hair styling devices primarily intended for simple hair drying) or hair styling devices 1 where the air outlet 4 is designed for the user to equip with such an accessory (e.g., hair styling devices intended to allow hair drying and styling). From an industrial and economic point of view, this yields significant advantages because different types of hair styling devices can therefore be equipped with blower modules 5, whose design principles are advantageously the same.

[0048] Preferably, the outer diameter D of the fan wheel 6 e With inner diameter D i The ratio is essentially equal to 1.7, which makes it particularly possible to further improve the aerodynamic performance of the blower module 5. When the outer diameter D, expressed in millimeters... e When the ratio of the number of air blowers to the number of blades 8 is preferably approximately 2.3, the noise performance of the air blower module 5 is advantageously further improved.

[0049] According to the outer diameter D defined above e With inner diameter D i In comparison, the fan wheel 6 of the blower module 5 of the hair styling device 1 according to the invention can advantageously have an outer diameter D that is substantially between 30 mm and 70 mm. e And the inner diameter D is basically between approximately 20mm and approximately 50mm. i Even more advantageously, the outer diameter D e It can be basically between 40mm and 60mm, and the inner diameter D i It can be basically between 30mm and 40mm. For example, when the outer diameter D of the fan wheel 6... ePreferably, the diameter is approximately 56 mm, and the inner diameter D of the fan wheel 6 is... i Preferably, when the size is substantially equal to 33 mm, a particularly optimized size can be defined. The dimensions of the volute 9 and the housing 7 are adapted accordingly to the dimensions of the fan wheel 6 thus defined, so that the size can be advantageously reduced and optimized, resulting in a particularly small volume for the blowing module 5 while maintaining satisfactory aerodynamic and acoustic characteristics.

[0050] The blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 advantageously have a substantially constant thickness e, preferably between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm, and even more preferably substantially equal to 1 mm. In addition to the beneficial effects of this dimensional characteristic on aerodynamic performance and aerodynamic noise control, it also enables the blades 8 to possess excellent mechanical strength while maintaining a relatively low overall mass of the fan wheel 6. This is beneficial in terms of user comfort of the hair styling device 1, the balance of the fan wheel 6, and the control of manufacturing costs.

[0051] The aerodynamic performance of the blowing module 5 and its fan wheel 6 can be advantageously further optimized by further machining the profile of the blades 8. In particular, it has been observed that it is advantageous for the blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 to have a curved profile, which is configured to define an angle β1 (or angle of attack) at the blade inlet and an angle β2 (or angle of departure) at the blade outlet, such that:

[0052] - The angle β1 at the blade inlet is substantially between 90° and 130°, preferably substantially between 90° and 110°, and

[0053] - The angle β2 at the blade exit is between 120° and 170°, preferably between 140° and 160°.

[0054] Even more preferably, the angle β1 at the blade inlet is substantially equal to 100°, while the angle β2 at the blade outlet is advantageously substantially equal to 150°.

[0055] like Figure 6 As illustrated, for a given blade 8, the angle β1 at the blade inlet corresponds to the angle formed between the following two:

[0056] - The tangent t1 to the concave surface of blade 8 at the leading edge 8A of blade 8, and

[0057] - On the inner circumference of fan wheel 6 P i The tangent t2 is on the inner circumference P of the fan wheel 6. i The point where the tangent t1 of the concave surface of the blade 8 at the leading edge 8A of the blade 8 intersects.

[0058] Therefore, the angle β1 at the blade inlet is advantageously oriented toward the interior of the fan wheel 6 and open in the direction of rotation of the fan wheel 6 (counterclockwise in the embodiment shown in the figure).

[0059] On the contrary, such as Figure 6 As illustrated, for a given blade 8, the angle β2 at the blade exit corresponds to the angle formed between the following two:

[0060] - Tangent t3 on the concave surface of blade 8 at the trailing edge 8B of blade 8, and

[0061] - On the outer periphery of fan wheel 6 P e The tangent t4 is on the outer periphery P of the fan wheel 6. e The point where the tangent t3 of the concave surface of the blade 8 at the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8 intersects.

[0062] Therefore, the angle β2 at the blade exit is advantageously oriented towards the outside of the fan wheel 6 and open in a direction opposite to the rotation direction of the fan wheel 6 (counterclockwise in the embodiment shown in the figure).

[0063] For example, for an outer diameter D that is chosen to be approximately equal to 56 mm. e And choose an inner diameter D that is approximately equal to 33mm. i The curved profile of blade 8 advantageously defines an angle β1 of preferably 100° at the blade inlet and an angle β2 of preferably 150° at the blade outlet. Blade 8 can be easily designed as a straight blade, with the leading edge 8A and trailing edge 8B of the straight blade 8 extending substantially parallel to the axis of rotation D3-D. 3′ (According to the preferred design described above). The concave contours of these blades 8 are orthogonal to the rotation axis D3-D. 3’ The plane is defined by a portion of a circle C with a radius r approximately equal to 12 mm. For example... Figure 5 As schematically shown, the circle C that defines the concave curvature radius r of blade 8 thus intersects with the following two:

[0064] -Outer periphery of fan wheel 6 P e ,as well as

[0065] -Inner circumference P of fan wheel 6 i At the point where circle C is tangent to the first line d1, the first line d1 intersects the axis of rotation D3-D. 3’ The second straight line d2 intersects with the inner circumference P of the second straight line d2 and the fan wheel 6. i At the intersection of the two lines, the first straight line d1 is inclined forward in the rotation direction of the fan wheel 6, forming an angle α of 10° with the second straight line d2.

[0066] For a given rotational speed of the fan wheel 6, using a smaller number of blades 8 tends to increase the airflow rate generated by the blower module 5. On the other hand, it also tends to increase the aerodynamic noise generated by the blower module 5. Conversely, using a larger number of blades 8 allows for better control of the aerodynamic noise generated by the blower module 5. In fact, it has been observed that increasing the number of fluid channels defined between two consecutive blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 advantageously increases the natural frequency of the blades 8 and provides more air discharge points, each with less energy. However, increasing the number of blades 8 tends to have a negative impact on aerodynamic performance, particularly in terms of the generated airflow rate.

[0067] Therefore, it is preferable to maintain the outer diameter D of the fan wheel 6 as defined according to the present invention. e While within the ratio of the number of blades 8, the fan wheel 6 includes 18 to 30 blades, or even more preferably 24 blades, in order to further optimize the performance of the blowing module 5 of the device 1 in terms of airflow and aerodynamic noise.

[0068] Advantageously, the fan wheel 6 includes one and only one air inlet 11. The fan wheel 6 then advantageously includes a first annular flange 12 (or annular crown) that connects the blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 to each other and extends across the first axial end of the blades 8, with its circular central opening defining the air inlet 11. The fan wheel 6 also includes a second circular flange 22, preferably solid and substantially airtight, arranged opposite the first annular flange 12, connecting the blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 to each other, and extending across the second axial end of the blades 8. Using this single air inlet 11 makes it possible to limit the aerodynamic noise generated by the blowing module 5 while ensuring a satisfactory airflow. As mentioned above, the opening diameter of the single air inlet 11 is preferably substantially equal to the inner diameter D of the fan wheel 6. i .

[0069] However, although less advantageous, it is also conceivable that the fan wheel 6 includes two air inlets. These inlets could then be formed by circular central openings of a first flange and a second flange, each flange arranged at one of the first or second axial ends of the blade. According to this variation (not shown), the fan wheel 6 would advantageously include a third solid circular flange arranged between the first and second flanges, preferably along the axis of rotation D3-D. 3’These flanges are equidistant. Alternatively, this "dual-inlet" variant can be implemented using two fan wheels with a single inlet, which are integrally connected to each other via their respective second solid circular flanges, thus forming a fan wheel with dual inlets. This "dual-inlet" variant can achieve a larger airflow, but at the cost of generating more noise. Furthermore, this variant is actually more complex and more expensive to implement than the preferred variant described above, which includes one and only one inlet 11 in the fan wheel 6.

[0070] from Figure 7 and Figure 8 As can be seen, the fan wheel 6 can be advantageously provided with an internal conical or truncated conical flared mouth 23, the height of which is related to the rotation axis D3-D. 3’ The flare 23 overlaps with the air inlet 11 of the fan wheel 6, which is formed by the second flange 22 of the base 24 of the flare 23. More advantageously, the flare 23 has a concave conical or truncated conical shape, i.e., the outer surface of the flare 23 facing the interior of the fan wheel 6 curves inward toward the interior of the flare 23. The base 24 of the flare 23 preferably extends to the outer periphery P of the fan wheel 6. e This causes the flared opening 23 to intersect with the blade 8, as... Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown in the example. The use of this flare 23 advantageously contributes to further improving the aerodynamic performance of the blower module 5, particularly by promoting the intake of air by the fan wheel 6.

[0071] As mentioned above, the implementation of the volute nozzle 18 generally has a favorable effect on the flow rate of the generated airflow. However, the interaction between the airflow ejected by the fan wheel 6 and this volute nozzle 18 can be a significant source of noise during the operation of the blowing module 5.

[0072] Several additional technical measures, which will be described in detail below, can be advantageously implemented, each implemented individually or preferably in combination, to reduce aerodynamic noise, more specifically, generated by the interaction between the airflow driven by the blades 8 of the fan wheel 6 and the volute nozzle 18 of the volute 9, while maintaining a completely satisfactory airflow rate generated by the blowing module 5. These technical measures have proven particularly advantageous within the preferred rotational speed range of the fan wheel 6 described above.

[0073] According to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, particularly from... Figures 3 to 5 and Figure 9 As can be seen from this, it is therefore particularly advantageous that the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 is along the average direction D6-D. 6’ Extending longitudinally, this average direction is inclined relative to the first plane P1, and each plane includes the average extension direction D4-D of the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8. 4’and the rotating shaft D3-D located on fan wheel 6 3’ At least one point on ( Figure 9 In other words, when the rotation axis D3-D is relative to the fan wheel 6... 3’ In the orthogonal projection onto the plane opposite to the leading edge 19 of the nozzle 18 and the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8, the extension directions D6-D of the leading edge 19 of the nozzle 18 and the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8 are seen. 6’ D4-D 4’ At that time, the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 is therefore not parallel to the average extension direction D4-D of the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8. 4’ The volute nozzle 18 extends not in the direction of the fan wheel 6, but in a tilted direction. This tilt of the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 advantageously tends to homogenize the velocity field of the airflow leaving the fan wheel 6, thereby reducing the aerodynamic noise generated by the impact of the airflow leaving the fan wheel 6 on the volute nozzle 18. For example, according to the embodiment shown, the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 8 is therefore advantageously tilted to increase the cross-section of the exhaust port 17 of the volute 9 on the side of the air inlet 11 of the fan wheel 6. Figure 9 ).

[0074] Even more advantageous is that the average extension direction of the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 is D6-D 6’ The inclination is selected such that the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 obliquely covers at least one inter-blade space 25, that is, the space defined by the trailing edges 8B of two consecutive blades 8 of the fan wheel 6, the spacing ( Figure 9 However, in order not to negatively affect the generated airflow and the overall volume of the blower module 5, preferably, the volute nozzle 18 thus obliquely covers at most two inter-blade spaces 25 (which are continuous along the circumference of the fan wheel 6), and more preferably covers only one inter-blade space 25.

[0075] In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, as described above, the average extension direction of the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8 is D4-D. 4’ Preferably, the rotation axis D3-D is substantially parallel to the fan wheel 6. 3’ Therefore, the average longitudinal extension direction of the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 is D6-D. 6’ Inclined relative to the first plane P1, each of the first plane P1 includes the average extension direction D4-D of the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8. 4’ The rotating shaft D3-D of fan wheel 6 3’ It is inscribed in the first plane P1. Therefore, the average extension direction of the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 is D6-D. 6’ The rotation axis D3-D relative to fan wheel 6 3’ Inclined, especially as Figure 9 As shown.

[0076] It has been observed that reducing the distance or clearance between the fan impeller 6 and the volute nozzle 18 tends to significantly improve aerodynamic performance, but this leads to increased aerodynamic noise. Therefore, the minimum distance d between the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 and the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8 of the fan impeller 6 is preferably chosen to be substantially within the outer diameter D of the fan impeller 6. e Between 5% and 15%. Even more preferably, the minimum distance d is substantially equal to the outer diameter D of the fan wheel 6. e 12.5%. The “minimum distance d” here refers to the distance (or gap) between the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 and the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8 closest to the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 when the fan wheel 6 rotates. Therefore, this distance d is typically measured in the aforementioned plane P1 between the leading edge 8B of the blade 8 and the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18. The outer perimeter P of the fan wheel 6 is defined by the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8. e In particular, the distance d advantageously corresponds to the outer periphery P of the fan wheel 6. e The minimum distance between the leading edge 19 of the volute mouth 18 and the volute mouth 18, such as Figure 5 As shown schematically.

[0077] Advantageously, the minimum distance d is along the average extension direction D6-D of the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 and the trailing edge 8B of the associated blade 8. 6’ D4-D 4’ Essentially constant. For example, for a fan wheel 6 with an outer diameter D that is advantageously chosen to be equal to 56 mm. e The minimum distance d between the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 and the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8 can therefore be advantageously chosen as a constant and is essentially equal to 7 mm.

[0078] The preferred value of the minimum distance d between the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 and the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8 of the fan wheel 6 thus advantageously enables the limitation of aerodynamic noise associated with the interaction between the airflow from the fan wheel 6 and the volute nozzle 18 without significantly reducing the aerodynamic performance of the blowing module 5, while also limiting the overall volume of the blowing module 5.

[0079] It has also been observed that the volute mouth 18 is located at its free leading edge 19 and in the average extension direction D6-D of the leading edge 19 of the volute mouth 18. 6’ Having a specific radius of curvature in an orthogonal plane is advantageous; the value of this radius of curvature is essentially within the outer diameter D of the fan wheel. e It is between 0.5% and 10%, and preferably substantially equal to 5.3%. For example, for a fan wheel 6 with an outer diameter D that is advantageously chosen to be equal to 56 mm. e Therefore, the radius of curvature of the volute nozzle 19 can be advantageously chosen to be substantially equal to 3 mm.

[0080] Combining the following aspects from both an aerodynamic performance perspective and a performance perspective of limiting aerodynamic noise is particularly meaningful:

[0081] The minimum distance d between the leading edge 19 of the volute nozzle 18 and the trailing edge 8B of the blade 8 of the fan wheel 6 is approximately equal to the outer diameter D of the fan wheel 6. e 12.5%, and

[0082] - The radius of curvature of the volute nozzle 18 is approximately equal to the outer diameter D of the fan wheel. e 5.3%.

[0083] Advantageously, the motor 20 of the blower module 5 is arranged such that the rotor of the motor 20 is along an axis D3-D parallel to or coincident with the rotation axis D3-D of the fan wheel 6. 3’ The motor shaft rotates. This preferred structure contributes to the particularly compact, robust and reliable structure of the hair styling device 1 because it facilitates the direct drive of the motor to the fan wheel 6, with the motor shaft 10 advantageously integrated directly with the hub of the fan wheel 6.

[0084] Preferably, the motor 20 driving the fan wheel 6 is an external rotor motor. This external rotor motor 20 has excellent efficiency and can generate high torque at high speeds, thus achieving optimal performance. Preferably, the motor 20 driving the fan wheel 6 is a brushless motor (a so-called brushless motor or a self-guided synchronous motor with permanent magnets). This brushless motor is generally more robust and lighter than conventional brushed motors. It is quieter, more energy-efficient, and offers greater flexibility and better precision in speed regulation. More preferably, the motor 20 driving the fan wheel 6 is a brushless DC (BLDC) external rotor motor with sensors. This motor offers excellent performance levels while being compact, reliable, and robust.

[0085] Advantageously, the motor 20 is at least partially housed within the fan wheel 6 to further improve the compactness of the blower module 5. For this purpose, advantageously, according to the embodiment shown in the figures, the fan wheel 6 is preferably provided with a flared opening 23, which is hollow, to define an inner housing 26 that opens outward from the fan wheel 6 via a second flange 22. The shape of the inner housing 26 is then advantageously defined such that the interior of the inner housing 26 at least partially houses the motor 20, as... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As illustrated in the example, the motor shaft 21 then advantageously passes through the flared end 23 along its height, and the nut 27 can be advantageously positioned at the top of the flared end 23, the threaded end of the motor shaft 21 extending beyond this top, in order to secure the fan wheel 6 to the motor shaft 21 and the motor 20. Figure 7 and Figure 8 ).

[0086] To ensure excellent rotational stability of the fan wheel 6, and thus improve the noise performance, reliability, and robustness of the blower module 5, the blower module 5 may advantageously further include support arms 28 (e.g., three radially equidistant support arms 28, through...). Figure 1 As can be seen in the protective grille 15, the support arm 28 connects the motor shaft 21 to the housing 7 of the blower module 5. Therefore, the axial alignment of the motor shaft 21 and the fan wheel 6 is well ensured.

[0087] Preferably, the hair styling device 1 further includes an electric heating element 29 for heating the airflow generated by the blower module 5 and blown to the outside through the air outlet 4. The electric heating element 29 can be constructed from any suitable electric heating component based on any technology that allows the conversion of electrical energy into heat energy. Preferably, the electric heating element 29 achieves Joule-effect heating. It should be understood that the invention is not limited to any particular heating technology, as long as the heating element 29 is integrated into the hair styling device 1 and is electrically powered. The electric heating element 29 has, for example, a power greater than 500W, even more preferably at least equal to 1000W, and preferably at least equal to 1500W. For example, the electric heating element 29 includes at least one electric heating resistor formed by a winding of metal wire (not shown, for example, made of nickel-chromium alloy) surrounding an insulating core (e.g., made of mica), the insulating core having, for example, a cross-shaped cross-section.

[0088] As shown in the figure, the electric heating element 29 is preferably permanently embedded in the blower head 3, located upstream of the air outlet 4 relative to the airflow, so as to heat the airflow before it escapes from the blower head 3 through the air outlet 4. Figure 3 In this configuration, the insulating core of the electric heating element 29 is visible by making the internal nozzle 30 of the preferred hair dryer head 3 transparent. In other words, the electric heating element 29 is permanently integrated into the hair dryer head 3 and is not intended to be separated from it. Due to the specific positioning of the hair dryer head 3, the electric heating element 29, and the hair dryer module 5 relative to the handle 2, a very favorable mass distribution is achieved, which gives the hair styling device 1 particularly good balance characteristics, making it easier to operate.

[0089] Advantageously, the device 1 includes an intermediate conduit 31 disposed within the handle 2 to allow air communication between the fan wheel 6 and the blower head 3. Figure 3 and Figure 4 For this purpose, the housing 7 of the blowing module 5, which includes or forms the volute 9, is in communication with the intermediate conduit 12. The volute 9 thus advantageously leads to the intermediate conduit 12 via the air outlet portion 16 (or diffuser) of the volute 9, so as to propel the external air drawn in by the fan wheel 6 via the air intake 13 into the intermediate conduit 12.

[0090] Advantageously, the blower head 3 itself forms or includes a blower duct 32, which is connected on one side to the intermediate duct 31 and on the other side to the air outlet 4, through which it leads to the outside. As shown, the blower duct 32 may advantageously include an internal nozzle portion 30, which, as described above, extends within the blower head 3 along the average blowing direction D2-D. 2’ Extending longitudinally to air outlet 4, the internal nozzle 30 opens at air outlet 4.

[0091] Taking into account the direction of airflow, the electric heating element 29 is advantageously arranged in the air duct 32, for example, within the internal nozzle 30, upstream of the air outlet 4 and downstream of the intermediate duct 31, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown in the example, the intermediate duct 31 advantageously guides the airflow through and within the handle 2, in this case, along a trajectory preferably a substantially straight line, from the second end 2B toward the first end 2A toward the blower head 3.

[0092] The blower head 3 is advantageously positioned along the average blowing direction D2-D 2’ Extending between the closed rear surface 3A and the front surface 3B including the air outlet 4 ( Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 In other words, the air duct 32 is only open at the front surface 3B, and does not connect to the outside at the rear surface 3A, which is sealed in an airtight manner. Due to this technical measure, air performance is optimized, which also avoids the presence of a suction port at the air blower head 3, which could be a source of discomfort for the user, especially noise, or even a source of danger.

[0093] The blower head 3 is advantageously embedded with a deflector 33, which is designed and configured to deflect the airflow from the intermediate duct 31 and guide it into the blower duct 32. Therefore, the deflector 33 is advantageously shaped and arranged such that the airflow from the intermediate duct 31 undergoes a deflection of at least 70°, and preferably approximately 90°, towards the air outlet 4. This deflection of the airflow by the deflector 33 allows the airflow to extend from a direction substantially parallel to the average longitudinal direction D1-D within the handle 2. 1’ The trajectory changes to be essentially parallel to the average direct blowing direction D2-D within the blowing duct 32. 2’ The trajectory continues until air outlet 4.

[0094] Advantageously, the hair styling device 1 includes an electronic module 34 for guiding and / or controlling the operation of the device 1. Figure 3 and Figure 4The electronic module 34 is, for example, in the form of an electronic board (PCBA) formed from a printed circuit board (PCB), on which various electronic components (capacitors, resistors, transistors, etc.) are mounted. The electronic board forming the electronic module 34 is advantageously functionally connected to the blower module 5 and / or the electric heating element 29, and preferably connected to at least one adjustment member 35 for adjusting the operation of the device 1, which can be manually operated by the user. The electronic module 34 is advantageously embedded within the blower head 3, located upstream of the electric heating element 29 relative to the airflow. Thus, the airflow from the intermediate duct 31 first sweeps over the electronic module 34, allowing the electronic module 34 to be cooled before being heated downstream by the electric heating element 29, ultimately exiting the device 1 through the air outlet 4. This structure allows the electronic module 34 to be housed adjacent to the heating element 29 without causing overheating of the electronic module 34, which is cooled by the airflow before the electric heating element 29. In this particularly advantageous embodiment, the hair styling device 1 features a particularly compact design and a particularly simple and reliable structure, especially due to the effective cooling of the electronic module 34 achieved through its specific positioning in the airflow, thus enabling optimal operation. Preferably, the electronic module 34 is attached to the deflector 33 on its inner surface, thus the deflector 33 performs the dual functions of deflecting the airflow and supporting the electronic module 34. The specific positioning of the electronic module 34 on the deflector 33 optimizes its cooling because, at the deflector 33, the airflow may experience turbulence conducive to heat exchange.

[0095] The air duct 32, formed by (or including) the air nozzle 3, advantageously has a substantially converging shape in the direction of the air outlet 4 to produce a converging nozzle effect, which makes it possible to reduce the pressure at the outlet 4 and increase the airflow velocity. In other words, the air duct 13 gradually opens from the front surface 3B toward the rear surface 3A. This rearward opening shape also allows sufficient space to accommodate the electronic module 34.

[0096] Advantageously, the hair dryer head 3 incorporates an adjustment member 35 for adjusting the operation of the device 1. This adjustment member 35 is manually operable to allow for adjustment of the operation of the device 1, such as adjustment of the blowing power and / or airflow temperature. For example, the adjustment member 35 may be designed to allow adjustment of the blowing power by alternately controlling the rotational speed of the fan wheel 6 according to a first minimum speed and a second maximum speed, the first minimum speed corresponding to, for example, a speed of 14,000 rpm and the second maximum speed corresponding to, for example, a speed of 17,000 rpm, as described above. Preferably, the adjustment member 35 is arranged on the rear surface 3A of the hair dryer head 3. This configuration advantageously utilizes the fact that the rear surface 3 is preferably closed, providing excellent ergonomics to the hair styling device 1 by positioning the adjustment member 35 using the rear portion of the hair dryer head 3 (in prior art devices, the rear portion of the hair dryer head 3 is typically used for the suction function), allowing the user to manually operate the adjustment member 35 while drying hair. In other words, the adjustment member 35 is advantageously positioned so that the user can hold the handle 2 with one hand while operating the first adjustment member 35 with the thumb of that hand. The regulating member 35 is advantageously designed to ensure the adjustment of the rotational speed of the fan wheel 6 via the electric motor 20 connected to the fan wheel 6, thereby regulating the airflow speed. As shown, the regulating member 35 advantageously includes a section along a direction advantageously corresponding to the average blowing direction D2-D. 2’ A rotating wheel that rotates along its axis. The wheel, in particular, is constructed to rotate along the average blowing direction D2-D. 2’ The use of a rotating wheel with coincident or parallel axes gives device 1 a particularly ergonomic feature. Preferably, as shown, the wheel is integrated into the blower head 3, so that it itself helps to locally define the surface casing of the blower head 3. Due to this technical measure, the adjusting member 35 is simply flush with the outer casing of the blower head 3 without forming a noticeable protrusion on the surface of the blower head. This not only gives device 1 an aesthetic feature, but also contributes to its compactness and robustness. Preferably, the wheel is in the form of at least one ring or part of a ring that rotates about a fixed central hub 36 along the aforementioned axis of rotation. The central hub 36 in question is advantageously in the form of a solid wall, substantially circular, which helps to define the rear surface 3A.

[0097] The hair styling device 1 also advantageously includes a hot / cold air selector 37, which is advantageously mounted on the handle 2, for example near the first end 2A of the handle 2, for turning the electric heating element 29 on / off, thereby allowing the user to select between a hot airflow or an airflow at ambient temperature. The hot / cold air selector 37 is, for example, in the form of a toggle switch or a button. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4Therefore, in the particularly advantageous embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, on the one hand, the user can adjust the speed of the airflow by acting on the wheel of the adjustment member 35 arranged on the rear surface 3A, and on the other hand, select the hot or cold airflow by acting on the selector 37 arranged on the handle 2, while continuing the hair styling operation (e.g., "brushing" type operation) without interrupting the operation.

[0098] It should be noted that, interestingly, the use of centrifugal or spiral centrifugal fan wheel 6 advantageously enables rotation along the axis D3-D. 3’ The air intake 13 of the positioning housing 7, the air inlet 14 of the volute 9, and the air inlet 11 of the fan wheel 6 are positioned such that the rotating shaft can advantageously be positioned substantially perpendicular to the average blowing direction D2-D. 2’ Inscribed in the second plane P2, and on the other hand, substantially perpendicular to handle 2 ( Figure 2 The average longitudinal extension direction D1-D 1’ It is internally tangent in the third plane P3. In other words, the rotation axis of fan wheel 6 is D3-D. 3’ Basically perpendicular to the fourth plane P4, the average blowing direction is D2-D 2’ and the average longitudinal extension direction of handle 2, D1-D 1’ All are internally tangent in the fourth plane P4. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the second, third, and fourth planes P2, P3, and P4 are orthogonal to each other. However, it is entirely conceivable that the second and third planes P2 and P3 may not be orthogonal to each other, for example, in the average longitudinal extension direction D1-D. 1’ Not perpendicular to the average blowing direction D2-D 2’ In such a case (for example, the handle 2 is tilted forward or backward relative to the outlet direction of the airflow through the air outlet 4).

[0099] Due to the aforementioned rotating axis D3-D 3’ This specific orientation allows potentially undesirable rotational effects to be advantageously minimized (if not eliminated), increasing comfort, especially when the user is performing a "brushing" type of drying. In fact, particularly during "brushing" styling, the user typically makes repetitive wrist-swinging movements to sweep each strand of hair to be styled with the airflow emitted by the hair styling device 1. This swinging motion can be particularly uncomfortable when parasitic rotational effects occur due to the rotation of the fan wheel 6 and / or other rotating elements of the blower module 5 (e.g., the rotor of the motor 20 driving the fan wheel 6). Due to the rotation axis D3-D 3’ Relative to the direction of airflow D2-D 2’ The longitudinal extension direction of handle 2, D1-D 1’This specific orientation advantageously minimizes potential dynamic imbalances caused by the rotational effect, which in particular allows the user to perform wrist swinging movements comfortably during the "brushing" operation. Furthermore, due to the rotation axis D3-D... 3’ This advantageous position significantly reduces, or even eliminates, the unpleasant sensation of instability associated with the sudden onset of the motor's rotational effect, which may exist in prior art devices when starting the equipment, thereby contributing to user comfort and safety. Furthermore, also due to the aforementioned rotating shaft D3-D... 3’ Relative to the average blowing direction D2-D 2’ The specific orientation of the airflow allows for a better distribution of air across the entire heating element 29. In fact, given the direction of rotation of the fan wheel 6, the air will naturally and easily concentrate at the rear of the intermediate duct 31. The air path is then optimized to pass completely through the heating element 29. This allows the heat supplied by the heating element 29 to dissipate better in the airflow, thus optimizing heat exchange and consequently the performance of the device 1, and particularly preventing the formation of hot spots that could damage the heating element 29.

[0100] Advantageously, particularly when the hair drying device 1 is formed according to the embodiment shown in the figure, the blower head 3 and the blower module 5 each form a protrusion on each side of the handle 2, the protrusion extending along the average longitudinal direction D1-D relative to the handle 2. 1’ At least one of them extends in the lateral direction. The presence of each protrusion formed by the blower head 3 and the blower module 5 on either side of the handle 2 makes the handle 2 clearly defined by forming a protective device on either side of the handle 2, which visually invites the user to grip the device 1 only at the position of the handle 2 with the optimal grip structure. The presence of these protrusions on both sides of the handle 2 also contributes to the good mass distribution as described above.

[0101] Therefore, the protrusion formed by the blower head 3 extends along at least one lateral direction, which corresponds to the average blowing direction D2-D. 2' The protrusion formed by the blower head 3 is advantageously not centered relative to the handle 2, and therefore extends laterally relative to the handle 2 in a manner more pronounced toward the front 3B than toward the back 3A.

[0102] As for the protrusion formed by the blower module 5, it advantageously has a substantially cylindrical shape, with a shape along the axis corresponding to the rotation axis D3-D. 3’ The circular base of the axis. The protrusion formed by the blower module 5 advantageously extends between a first side 5A covered by a protective grille 15 and where an air intake 13 is arranged, and an opposing second side 5B. The second side 5B is advantageously closed. Figure 7As shown in the example, the motor 20 for driving the fan wheel 6 is advantageously arranged behind the second side 5B, and the motor is thus positioned between the enclosed second side 5B (but preferably removable for easy access to the motor 20) and the fan wheel 6.

Claims

1. A portable hair styling device (1) comprising an embedded blower module (5) adapted to generate an airflow ejected from the portable hair styling device (1) toward a user's hair, characterized in that the blower module (5) comprises at least one centrifugal or spiral centrifugal fan wheel (6) with blades (8) and a volute (9), the fan wheel (6) being rotatably mounted within the volute, each of the blades (8) extending radially between a leading edge (8A) and an opposing trailing edge (8B), the fan wheel (6) having an inner diameter (D) defined by the leading edge (8A) of the blades (8). i ) and the outer diameter (D) defined by the trailing edge (8B) of the blade (8). e ), the outer diameter (D) of the fan wheel (6) e ) and inner diameter (D) i The ratio of the outer diameter (D) to the outer diameter (D) is between 1.6 and 1.8, expressed in millimeters. e The ratio of the number of blades (8) to the number of blades (8) is between 2 and 3.

2. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer diameter (D) of the fan wheel (6) e ) and inner diameter (D) i The ratio of 1 to 7 is equal to 1.

7.

3. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Outer diameter (D) expressed in millimeters e The ratio of the number of blades (8) to the number of blades (8) is 2.

3.

4. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: - The outer diameter (D) of the fan wheel (6) e Between 30 mm and 70 mm; and - The inner diameter (D) of the fan wheel (6) i (The diameter is between 20 mm and 50 mm.) 5. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that: - The outer diameter (D) of the fan wheel (6) e ) equals 56 mm; and - The inner diameter (D) of the fan wheel (6) i ) equals 33 mm.

6. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The fan wheel (6) comprises 18 to 30 blades (8).

7. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The fan wheel (6) comprises 24 blades (8).

8. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The blower module (5) includes an electric motor (20) connected to the fan wheel (6) to drive the fan wheel to rotate.

9. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The blower module (5) includes an electric motor (20) connected to the fan wheel (6) to drive the fan wheel to rotate at a speed between 10,000 and 20,000 revolutions per minute.

10. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The blower module (5) includes an electric motor (20) connected to the fan wheel (6) to drive the fan wheel to rotate at a speed between 14,000 and 17,000 revolutions per minute.

11. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The volute (9) is provided with a volute nozzle (18), which is defined by a free leading edge (19), the leading edge (19) of which is arranged in the air outlet portion (16) of the volute (9) facing the fan wheel (6).

12. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The leading edge (19) of the volute nozzle (18) runs along the average direction (D6-D) 6' Extending longitudinally, the average direction is inclined relative to the plane (P1), each of which includes the average extension direction (D4-D) of the trailing edge (8B) of the blade (8). 4’ ) and the rotating shaft (D3-D) located on the fan wheel (6). 3’ At least one point on ).

13. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The average extension direction (D4-D) of the trailing edge (8B) of the blade (8) 4’ The rotation axis (D3-D) parallel to the fan wheel (6) 3’ ).

14. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The trailing edges (8B) of the two consecutive blades (8) of the fan wheel (6) define the inter-blade space (25), and the average direction of the leading edge (19) of the volute nozzle (18) is (D6-D). 6' The degree of tilt of the volute mouth (18) is selected such that the leading edge (19) of the volute mouth (18) tilts to cover at least one inter-blade space (25).

15. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The trailing edges (8B) of the two consecutive blades (8) of the fan wheel (6) define the inter-blade space (25), and the average direction of the leading edge (19) of the volute nozzle (18) is (D6-D). 6' The degree of tilt of the volute mouth (18) is selected such that the leading edge (19) of the volute mouth (18) tilts to cover the space between up to two blades (25).

16. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The trailing edges (8B) of the two consecutive blades (8) of the fan wheel (6) define the inter-blade space (25), and the average direction of the leading edge (19) of the volute nozzle (18) is (D6-D). 6' The degree of tilt of the volute mouth (18) is selected such that the leading edge (19) of the volute mouth (18) tilts to cover only one inter-blade space (25).

17. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The minimum distance (d) between the leading edge (19) of the volute nozzle (18) and the trailing edge (8B) of the blade (8) of the fan wheel (6) is within the outer diameter (D) of the fan wheel (6). e Between 5% and 15%.

18. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that, The minimum distance (d) between the leading edge (19) of the volute nozzle (18) and the trailing edge (8B) of the blade (8) of the fan wheel (6) is equal to the outer diameter (D) of the fan wheel (6). e 12.5% ​​of ).

19. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The volute nozzle (18) is located at its leading edge (19) and in the average direction (D6-D) with the leading edge (19) of the volute nozzle (18). 6' The radius of curvature in the orthogonal plane is the outer diameter (D) of the fan wheel (6). e Between 0.5% and 10%.

20. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 19, characterized in that, The radius of curvature of the volute nozzle (18) at its leading edge (19) is equal to the outer diameter (D) of the fan wheel (6). e 5.3% of ).

21. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The blades (8) of the fan wheel (6) have a curved profile configured to define an angle β1 at the blade inlet and an angle β2 at the blade outlet, such that: - The angle β1 at the blade inlet is between 90° and 130°, and - The blade exit angle β2 is between 120° and 170°. The angle β1 at the blade inlet corresponds to the angle formed between the following two: - The tangent t1 to the concave surface of the blade (8) at the leading edge (8A) of the blade (8), and - On the inner circumference of the fan wheel (6) P i The tangent t2 is on the inner circumference P of the fan wheel (6). i The point where the tangent t1 of the concave surface of the blade (8) at the leading edge (8A) of the blade (8) intersects with the tangent t1 of the blade (8). The angle β2 at the blade exit corresponds to the angle formed between the following two: - Tangent t3 to the concave surface of blade (8) at the trailing edge (8B) of blade (8), and - On the outer periphery of the fan wheel (6) P e The tangent t4 is on the outer periphery P of the fan wheel (6). e The intersection point between the tangent t3 of the concave surface of the blade (8) at the trailing edge (8B) of the blade (8).

22. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 21, characterized in that, The blades (8) of the fan wheel (6) have a curved profile configured to define an angle β1 at the blade inlet and an angle β2 at the blade outlet, such that: - The angle β1 at the blade inlet is equal to 100°, and - The angle β2 at the blade exit is equal to 150°. The angle β1 at the blade inlet corresponds to the angle formed between the following two: - The tangent t1 to the concave surface of the blade (8) at the leading edge (8A) of the blade (8), and - On the inner circumference of the fan wheel (6) P i The tangent t2 is on the inner circumference P of the fan wheel (6). i The point where the tangent t1 of the concave surface of the blade (8) at the leading edge (8A) of the blade (8) intersects with the tangent t1 of the blade (8). The angle β2 at the blade exit corresponds to the angle formed between the following two: - Tangent t3 to the concave surface of blade (8) at the trailing edge (8B) of blade (8), and - On the outer periphery of the fan wheel (6) P e The tangent t4 is on the outer periphery P of the fan wheel (6). e The intersection point between the tangent t3 of the concave surface of the blade (8) at the trailing edge (8B) of the blade (8).

23. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The fan wheel (6) includes one and only one air inlet (11).

24. The portable hair styling device (1) according to claim 23, characterized in that, The opening diameter of the air inlet (11) is equal to the inner diameter (D) of the fan wheel (6). i ).

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